TEN COMMANDMENTS OF THE EAGLE NYC BATHROOMS.
Written for and originally published by FagRagMag.
My hat is off to the fine folks at The Eagle NYC for cultivating a renaissance in the historic space while staying true to its grit and aesthetic. In a time when a bastion of NYC queer nightlife could have fallen, the owners doubled down and expanded the space to introduce the large dancefloor our dear Eagle has always deserved. With this expansion came two large new restrooms, an even more necessary addition.
Any Eagle regular has known all too well the clusterfuck traffic jam that was the second-floor situation. Those confined bathroom spaces have personally caused me much dismay over the years, often sending me fleeing down to the less frequented powder room by the entrance.
With ample space to attend to one’s needs, these new bathrooms have been a relief for those needing to relieve themselves. However, they still share some of the same user errors of any queer bar lavatory. The following etiquette should be seen as helpful suggestions in navigating these shared spaces. They are by no means rules or intended to kink-shame. You can have a good time and still remember basic considerations.
Rules of consent do not end at the bathroom threshold. Yes means yes and no means no. Just because someone’s dick is out does not necessarily mean it is an invitation for anyone to grab it when passing by as if shaking their hand.
If you are standing in the doorframe of the bathroom, you are in the way. A multitude of other people need to use this door as an entry and exit.
If you are waiting for a stall and have no need for a urinal, let the folks behind you know and let them pass to use one.
The stall is not an office meant to be used for soirées of six of your closet casual acquaintances. Accomplish your stall goals and save the chit-chat for later.
If you are getting fucked in the stall, please arrive pre-paired and pre-lubed, placing at least one hand on the top of the stall wall to let others know it will not be available for the time being.
If someone in a stall can see your eye color through the gap, you are being a creeper.
Please do not leave your various paraphernalia on the ledge or on the floor.
Muscling aggressively past others is not a good look.
Please wash your hands and use trash receptacles.
And as always, as much as you may love watersports, do not lie in the trough!
Xx,
